Ben is an Iowa native with many years of experience operating educational and family entertainment centers. He has a passion for creating meaningful experiences for families, whether through learning or fun. Outside of work, Ben enjoys visiting Universal and Disney theme parks and going on adventures with his wife and their dog, Mimi.
Favorite Number: 5 — because 4 is too little and 6 is too many.
Favorite Math Joke: Frank has a pizza with 8 slices. If Frank eats 4 slices, how many slices does Steve get? None — because Frank is selfish and ate all of those slices too.
5 Years From Now: Living in Orlando.
Why Mathnasium: Ben loves being part of something that truly changes lives. Helping students gain confidence in math and unlock possibilities they never thought were possible is what makes him proud to work at Mathnasium.
Jennifer Speer
Owner
Jennifer has a unique perspective that allows her to understand your kids and help them.
She is a successful business owner and homeschooling mom of 3! She has the perspective of an educator as well as a busy parent and knows the challenges of both. Jennifer knows how to engage the kids and hold their interest. She keeps them progressing in math in a way they will actually enjoy!
Jennifer has always had a strong grip on Mathematics, earning her B.B.A in Finance at Southwest Texas State University and then owning and operating successful businesses alongside her husband James.
After discovering Mathnasium and seeing what it can offer kids, they made a tough decision to sell their previous business and start all over again. As scary as that sounds, they knew that parents wanted the best education options available for their children. Now she and James have expanded to multiple locations and have thousands of amazing success stories as a result of the passionate instructors, inspiring learning environment, unique teaching style, and world-class curriculum at Mathnasium!
Favorite Math Joke: There are 3 kinds of people in this world... Those who can count, and those who can't.
Fun Fact: Graduated college in 3 1/2 years with a 4.0!
I love Mathnasium because: I get to be a part of a great organization that changes kids' lives! Who wouldn't want to be a part of that?!?
Larry Martinek
Creator of the Mathnasium Method
Larry has spent his entire career finding a better way to teach math. From inner city public schools, to acclaimed magnet schools, to leading private and parochial schools, Larry has served as both a classroom teacher and as an educational consultant. He has designed curriculum, teaching strategies, and teaching materials to help students and teachers learn math more effectively. He has trained teachers in the art and science of boosting students' ability to “do” math, thereby increasing students' math scores and feeling of self-worth. Larry is the developer of Mathnasium’s educational program – one of the most comprehensive and innovative curricula ever produced for teaching math. While Larry is not an Instructor at our Center, he is a valuable asset we can call on to ask about specific students' scenarios for guidance and advice. This has helped to make visits more productive and enjoyable for many of our students.
Natalie is a passionate math educator who brings both heart and logic to every session. Originally from St. Louis, she moved to Iowa to pursue her love for mathematics, a journey sparked by her first geometry proof and the process-driven beauty of logical reasoning. Her enthusiasm for math is matched only by her love of teaching children, a calling she’s followed since middle school through her involvement with youth programs like Mariner Girl Scouts. At Mathnasium, Natalie uses her thoughtful, step-by-step approach to help students understand not just the “how,” but the “why” behind every concept. Her goal is to build strong foundations and inspire confidence, while connecting math to real-life experiences in ways that resonate with each learner.
Favorite number: My favorite number is 57.
Favorite math joke: My favorite math joke, "Purity", is attached and can be found at https://xkcd.com/435/.
In five years, I will be: I plan to be a mother, working in something related to math, and continuing to volunteer as the Waterfront Director for Mariner Girl Scouts.
I love Mathnasium because: It combines my loves of math and working with children. I especially appreciate the Mathnasium Method "making math make sense".
Logan Huynh
Instructor
Logan brings joy, energy, and a genuine love of math to every student interaction. Known for his cheerful spirit and engaging teaching style, he helps students feel at ease while tackling even the trickiest topics. A natural performer from a musical household, Logan uses his enthusiasm to keep learning upbeat and interactive. While he may not be a fan of literature, he’s absolutely passionate about math — and nothing makes him happier than helping students grasp new concepts and gain confidence in their skills.
Favorite number: 7 - My family has 7 people, including triplets, so 7 has always had a special place.
Favorite math joke: The English book asked the Math book why he was so sad. You know what he said? “Because I have so many problems!”
In five years, I will be: An Engineer!
I love Mathnasium because: Because the amount of support it brings others. Those who struggle in math know they have a place they can return to in order to find support. It helps inspire confidence and success as they pursue to improve at the Mathnasium.
Boon Stoeckel
Instructor
Boon first came to Mathnasium as a student, and now he’s come full circle — helping others succeed just as he did. A current student at Centennial High School with plans to attend the University of Northern Iowa, Boon brings a unique perspective to the team. His patient, supportive teaching style focuses on helping students not only master their current material but also build a strong foundation for future math success. Boon knows firsthand how empowering the right instruction can be, and he’s committed to paying that forward with every student he works with.
Favorite number: 35 - It was my original number when I played hockey in Woodland Park, CO
Favorite math joke: What did the triangle say to the circle? You’re pointless.
In five years, I will be: Graduating UNI with a business economics degree and a minor in management information systems.
I love Mathnasium because: It can boost kids knowledge of the math they are working on or help them through problems they don’t quite understand or know how to solve. It can also help then keep their math knowledge if they attend during the summer.
Ryan Collins
Instructor
Ryan is a senior at Ankeny Centennial High School who enjoys exploring how math and science connect to the world around him. He’s always been curious about how things work and loves sharing that curiosity with others. His easygoing nature and problem-solving mindset make him someone students enjoy learning from. Outside of school, he plays baseball and plans to study chemical engineering at Iowa State University.
Favorite Number: 4 — it’s the number he always wore growing up playing sports.
Favorite Math Joke:Why was 6 afraid of 7? Because 7 ate 9. In 5 Years: Starting a career in chemical engineering.
Why Mathnasium? He loves making a real difference by helping students grow from frustrated to confident.
Rowan Wilson
Instructor
Rowan connects easily with students thanks to his calm demeanor and thoughtful approach to teaching. As a high school junior, he brings enthusiasm, patience, and a love of learning to every student session. His natural curiosity about how math works makes him a thoughtful and encouraging instructor, and he enjoys helping students break down complex ideas into manageable steps. Outside the center, Rowan loves playing basketball with friends — a team-oriented mindset he brings into the classroom by supporting students through challenges and celebrating their wins along the way.
Favorite number: 5 because that’s how many members are in my family.
Favorite math joke: Do you know what mathematicians do after it snows? They make snow angles!
In five years, I will be: Hopefully completing my last year of college, likely in a math related field.
I love Mathnasium because: I really like math and I want other people to experience that feeling as well.
Elementary Math Experts
Fun and Engaging
Mathnasium of Ankeny instructors are experts at helping with elementary math topics. The Mathnasium Method focuses on building a strong foundation in basic math skills by ensuring that students master essential concepts like addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and fractions. Mathnasium helps students develop the math proficiency they need to succeed in more advanced math as they progress.
Mathnasium instructors are trained to identify and address struggles in elementary math early on, helping students develop math confidence and a deep understanding of key concepts. Focusing on elementary math tutoring allows instructors to close gaps in knowledge and build a solid mathematical foundation for future success.
The Mathnasium approach doesn’t just teach students the "how" of math, but also the "why," helping them to avoid common misconceptions that can hinder their progress. This early intervention ensures that students are well-prepared for higher-level math.
By prioritizing math help at the elementary level, Mathnasium provides the essential tools to boost confidence and improve math skills, setting students up for lifelong success in math!
Mathnasium instructors specialize in elementary math tutoring
We focus on building a strong foundation in basic math skills
Mathnasium Instructors are trained to identify struggles and improve math confidence
The Mathnasium Method helps close knowledge gaps, ensuring students are prepared for advanced math
Mathnasium teaches both the "how" and the "why" of math to avoid misconceptions
Early math intervention supports lifelong success in math
Middle School Math Experts
Patient and Helpful
Mathnasium instructors are experts in middle school math tutoring because we know this stage is crucial in building a strong foundation for future success in high school math and beyond. Here’s why our expertise is essential:
1. Bridging Gaps in Math Learning Middle school math acts as a bridge between elementary concepts and more advanced topics like algebra, geometry, and pre-calculus. There is a strong focus on important concepts such as solving equations, working with variables, and understanding ratios. Mathnasium instructors help identify and address gaps in math skills, ensuring students are well-prepared for high school math.
2. Developing Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking Problem-solving and critical thinking are essential in math. Mathnasium instructors specialize in helping students develop these skills, ensuring they can approach math problems logically and confidently. This is key to excelling in advanced math and on college entrance exams.
3. Personalized Math Help for Every Student Mathnasium offers personalized math help to match each student’s unique learning style. Whether students need extra support with visual aids, hands-on practice, or a slower pace, Mathnasium instructors tailor their approach to meet the needs of each learner.
4. Addressing Common Struggles in Middle School Math Many students face challenges in middle school math, such as working with fractions, negative numbers, and basic algebra. Mathnasium instructors are skilled at helping students overcome these difficulties, offering step-by-step explanations to boost math confidence and understanding.
5. Building Confidence for High School Math A key part of middle school math tutoring is fostering math confidence. Mathnasium instructors ensure that students feel capable and confident in their math abilities, which is crucial for succeeding in high school math and beyond.
6. Support for Various Math Curricula Whether students are following a traditional middle school math curriculum, an advanced math program, or something like Common Core Math, Mathnasium instructors provide customized support, helping students succeed in their current math class and be well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
High school math courses include advanced topics that require specialized knowledge and a deep understanding of complex concepts. Our instructors are brilliant, engaging math experts that guide our students through these challenging topics.
Here's why their expertise is essential:
1. Advanced Math Topics Require Specialized Knowledge High school math covers subjects like algebra, geometry, trigonometry, calculus, and statistics, which require advanced problem-solving skills. Mathnasium instructors are skilled in teaching these challenging topics, breaking them down into clear, understandable steps that help students succeed in high school math.
2. Preparing for College and Standardized Tests High school math tutoring is crucial for preparing students for college math and standardized tests like the SAT and ACT. Mathnasium instructors can provide targeted test prep, ensuring students understand the necessary math concepts to perform well on these exams.
3. Filling Gaps in Math Knowledge Many high school students have gaps in their math knowledge from earlier grades. Mathnasium instructors are experts at identifying these gaps, whether from pre-algebra or earlier, and providing the math help needed to fill them. This ensures that students have a strong foundation for tackling high school-level math.
4. Personalized Instruction for Every Student High school math tutoring at Mathnasium is personalized to fit each student’s learning style. Whether students need more visual aids, hands-on practice, or a slower pace, Mathnasium instructors tailor their teaching methods to ensure students grasp complex math concepts and succeed in their courses.
5. Building Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills Problem-solving and critical thinking are key in high school math. Mathnasium focuses on developing these skills, helping students approach complex math problems logically. This not only improves their performance in high school math and on college entrance exams, but also strengthens their overall math problem-solving abilities.
6. Support for Various High School Math Curricula Whether students are following a Common Core, IB, AP, or another high school math curriculum, Mathnasium instructors provide tailored support that aligns with these programs. They also help students prepare for AP exams and math sections of the SAT/ACT, ensuring they’re prepared for any challenge.
7. Boosting Math Confidence for Success Math confidence is essential for success in high school math and beyond. Mathnasium not only improves math proficiency but also focuses on boosting students' confidence, empowering them to approach advanced math topics with a positive mindset and excel in their coursework.
Mathnasium instructors are high school math experts because they have the knowledge and experience to help students master advanced math topics like algebra, calculus, and geometry. Their personalized approach ensures students get the math help they need to succeed in high school and test prep for college, setting them up for lifelong success in math!
Experts in Math, ANY Math!
Skills for Any Math Curriculum
Mathnasium helps students no matter which math curriculum or standards they are using in class. Our approach provides students with a full understanding of the core concepts of the topic, not just the memorized algorithm. This sets them up for success in any math class or on any college entrance exam. Plus, we set aside time to help them with their homework at the end of each session, so we can demonstrate exactly how the skills we practice at Mathnasium apply to their schoolwork.
Are you interested in changing lives through math? We're looking for outstanding individuals with a high level of commitment who are passionate about teaching math. Find out if there's a Mathnasium position that's just right for you!
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